Top 3 US Camping Destinations, Plus Insider Tips For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

When I lived in a small town, I constantly yearned for city-based vacations—indulging in new culinary experiences, exploring historical landmarks, and enthusiastically checking off every tourist attraction on my itinerary.

However, now as a current resident of New York City, my mindset has shifted significantly. Today, I find myself longing for an escape to unwind, relax, and immerse myself in something that this vibrant metropolis unfortunately lacks—nature.

Witnessing this intriguing contrast in real time, I recognize that I'm not alone in craving a holistic getaway. If you're also searching for your next nature-rich adventure, welcome—you're in the right place.

I reached out to my Instagram audience—a community filled with seasoned campers—to uncover the absolute best camping spots across the United States. These are destinations individuals flock to in order to discover serenity and return feeling fulfilled, rejuvenated, and more attuned to themselves and the world around them.

Our first destination is Big Sur—a picturesque stretch of coastline nestled among the mountains of California's central coast.

Savannah Paull, an Alaska Native and regular Big Sur camper, describes the land as "Untouched, expansive, and [it] truly puts in perspective the beauty of our earth." 

Paull reminisces about winding up service roads, ascending into the hills, and setting up camp with a breathtaking ocean vista.

"The views from the campsites and service roads make Big Sur perfect for a romantic couple's getaway, yet it's also ideal for a group trip," Paull adds.

I received glowing recommendations from at least 10 individuals who cherish the camping hubs located within the national parks of southern Utah—Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Moab, to name a few.

Gretchen Bauermeister, another enthusiast of southern Utah and a dedicated solo traveler, lauds the region for its diverse camping options.

"It was nice to pitch my tent for several days and drive in a different direction each day to get to my next adventure," she shares.

Moreover, as a passionate hiker, Bauermeister relishes the wealth of trails at her disposal here, singling out Angel's Landing and Fairyland Loop as personal favorites.

The East Coast offers many tranquil getaways, including the often "underrated" Adirondacks—a mountain range boasting over 3,000 sparkling lakes and ponds and abundant unspoiled wilderness.

Here, you can find various types of camping, from cozy log cabins and traditional tent sites to multiday backpacking trails. One method that caught my interest is paddle camping, described to me by New York native Danny Papes, who's been visiting the area for most of his life.

"My first time paddle-camping was with a group of five in the Adirondacks following the Saranac Lake route, which takes you from Upper Saranac Lake, through Middle Saranac, and then out through Lower Saranac," he explains.

During the journey, most of your gear is transported in the canoe, allowing you to set up camp wherever you choose or stop for a quick dip or lunch break.

There's a brief half-mile stretch where you'll need to carry your canoe between Upper and Middle Saranac Lake, but otherwise, it's a straightforward paddle camping excursion, he says. 

"Paddle camping is an amazing way to experience the great outdoors for multiple nights with friends, especially for those who may not be keen on a long through-hike or living off dry camp food and ultralight equipment," Papes explains.

Camping is one of the best ways to connect with nature and disconnect from the stress of daily life.

When you're planning your next camping adventure, consider visiting Big Sur, Southern Utah, or the Adirondacks—each highly recommended by seasoned campers.